The Department of English proudly announces the launch of its inaugural journal issue, The Kaleidoscope Chronicle. This publication marks a significant milestone in our academic and creative journey, coinciding with HSUHK’s 45th anniversary and the 150th year since the passing of Hans Christian Andersen.
Over a year in the making, Kaleidoscope began as a modest collection of student writings and has since evolved into a dynamic showcase of the department’s diverse voices.
“The word ‘kaleidoscope’ evokes images of ever-changing patterns in myriad forms and colours, while ‘chronicle’ brings a sense of record and permanence,” said Chair Professor Kwok-kan Tam. “The Kaleidoscope Chronicle, title of the journal, is an oxymoron producing multiple meanings combining the imaginary with the factual, while conjuring change, growth and development. It carries the Department’s aspiration for students.”
This special issue pays tribute to Andersen’s enduring legacy, featuring a wide range of creative works inspired by his fairytales. Readers will find original poetry, short stories, song lyrics from a musical on Andersen, and artworks—many of which were selected from student competitions held earlier this year.
In addition to creative works, Kaleidoscope includes scholarly essays and reviews that explore Andersen’s stories through various critical lenses. Topics include cross-cultural comparisons with Chekhov and Blake, biographical analyzes, symbolic interpretations, and studies of contemporary adaptations. These contributions reflect the department’s commitment to literary scholarship and interdisciplinary inquiry.
“Readers can expect to encounter poignant narratives, insightful critiques, and innovative interpretations of classic texts, all addressing universal themes such as love, compassion, sacrifice, death and immortality, and human nature,” said Founding Editor and Editor-In-Chief Dr. Anna Tso. “We hope you enjoy this collection as much as we have enjoyed bringing it to life.”
With its rich variety of perspectives and genres, The Kaleidoscope Chronicle marks the beginning of a new platform for literary exploration and academic dialogue at HSUHK.
A heartfelt thank you to our contributors, reviewers, and selection panel for making this publication possible. We invite you to explore this exciting new platform for literary expression and academic dialogue.
📖 Read the e-journal: click here
📬 Contact us: engjournal@hsu.edu.hk (Limited physical copies are available upon request)
About The Kaleidoscope Chronicle
Founded by Dr. Anna Tso, The Kaleidoscope Chronicle focuses on literature, language, culture, and the creative humanities, celebrating the remarkable talents of our students and the vibrant community within the English Department. Each year, the Department of English forms a team to review and edit student essays and creative works submitted to the journal. This publication showcases the writing talents at the Hang Seng University of Hong Kong and is edited and produced by faculty members of the Department of English.
The e-journal will be registered with ISSN and DOI*, a credential that can significantly enhance our students’ writing career.
Our second issue will spotlight English Language Teaching and Assessment, led by Dr. Gavin Bui. Please stay tuned for the next Open Call for submissions to our second issue—we warmly welcome student contributions from all faculties!
*DOIs may only be applicable to certain articles.
